In light of the ever-changing and often dangerous world, Arkansas Tech University has invested more than $1.6 million in campus security upgrades during the last 18 months, including placement of more than 20 emergency call stations across campus.

The university has added increased campus lighting, security gates to improve pedestrian safety, security cameras and public safety officers as part of the security enhancements, as well as implementing electronic door access to classroom buildings. A forthcoming improvement of the department’s communications systems is also anticipated.

“Arkansas Tech University takes its responsibility to provide for the safety of our students, faculty and staff very seriously,” said Susie Nicholson, ATU vice president for student services and university relations. “Our No. 1 priority is the safety of our campus community. We are appreciative of the support from our Board of Trustees and the dedication of resources to this project. The security upgrades that we have put in place and will continue to develop will forward our long-held reputation as a safe place to study and work.”

The enhancements began in April 2011, when the Board of Trustees approved funding for safety gates on roads near the Ross Pendergraft Library and Roush and Jones dormitories. In June, they approved $700,000 in funding for another round of enhancements.

In addition to the emergency call stations, ATU students, faculty and staff are encouraged to program the Office of Public Safety telephone number (968-0222) into their mobile devices. Officers are available 24 hours per day.

During the fall and spring semesters, the Office of Public Safety organizes a program called “Tech Safety Transport.” The program provides students, faculty and staff with the option of traveling with a safety escort so they can avoid walking alone at night.

ATU’s Office of Public Safety has also introduced bicycle patrols during the 2012-13 academic year.

“Our mission is to provide every student with the opportunity to achieve his or her academic goals,” Nicholson said. “Providing a safe learning environment is part of that mission. Campus security is a daily concern at Arkansas Tech, and we will continue to investigate new ways to keep our students, faculty and staff safe.”